Dax's grin was slow, shameless. "Married to you or not, I'm entitled to background checks. It's due diligence."
Chris blinked at him. "Due diligence? You hacked my professional portfolio."
"I requested it," Dax corrected smoothly, as if the difference were moral rather than technical. "And you were impressive. The bridge restoration in North Lyrian? Brilliant structural work."
Chris narrowed his eyes. "You read my reports?"
"I read everything that concerns me," Dax said simply. "And you, little moon, concern me a great deal."
The professors exchanged polite, carefully blank looks, the collective posture of people who had learned to survive royal absurdity with professional detachment. Only Serathine seemed faintly entertained, hiding her amusement behind her teacup.
Cressida cleared her throat pointedly. "If His Majesty's admiration is concluded, perhaps we might continue."
Dax inclined his head graciously. "By all means."
